Forensic Electrical Engineer Columbus OH

The Third Group; Columbus (OH); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Training

Job summary

The Third Group seeks an experienced Electrical Engineer to deliver expert investigative and failure analysis services in the Columbus area. You will evaluate electrical system failures, determine root causes, draft technical documentation, and may provide expert testimony as needed.

Responsibilities include conducting thorough field investigations, using diagnostic tools, and preparing detailed reports for clients in insurance, legal and industrial sectors.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is required.
• 2–10+ years of engineering experience, with forensic or field investigation preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and perform root-cause failure analyses of electrical equipment and power infrastructure.
• Conduct on-site forensic examinations and non-destructive/destructive testing as needed.
• Draft technical evaluations, cost estimates, and remediation recommendations.
• Provide objective expert testimony during legal disputes when required.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver timely client results.

Skills

Root-cause analysis

Technical reporting

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Electrical Forensic Consultant / Engineer

Location: Columbus, OH Metropolitan Area

ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer to deliver expert investigative and failure analysis services. Serving clients across the insurance, legal, industrial, and commercial sectors, this role evaluates electrical system failures, determines root causes, drafts thorough technical documentation, and delivers expert witness testimony during legal proceedings when required.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigative Operations & Case Management: Perform thorough root-cause failure analyses and diagnostic evaluations of damaged or malfunctioning electrical equipment and power infrastructure, adhering to pre-approved project scope and budget parameters.

• Site & Forensic Examinations: Conduct hands-on field investigations to assess physical conditions, direct non-destructive or destructive testing, capture detailed photographic records, and review relevant technical or operational histories.

• Instrumentation & Technical Analysis: Utilize specialized tools including diagnostic testing apparatus, digital imaging software, microscopes, and high-resolution cameras for field and laboratory analysis. Apply core engineering calculations, models, and industry formulas.

• Reporting & Legal Support: Draft clear, comprehensive written evaluations and oral briefings detailing failure root causes, total extent of damage, recommended remediation plans, and projected repair scopes. Provide objective expert testimony during legal disputes and court proceedings.

• Project Delivery & Collaboration: Manage an active multi-case workload, working alongside multi-disciplinary technical specialists and field personnel to deliver timely results to clients.

• Compliance & Standards: Ensure strict compliance with all workplace safety standards, internal operating procedures, and relevant local land use codes and regulations.

• Client Engagement: Establish, cultivate, and maintain strong professional connections across a diverse client portfolio.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Education: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.

• Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is required.

• Experience: Minimum of 2 to 10+ years of professional engineering experience, with a strong preference for candidates with direct field investigation or forensic diagnostic background.

• Transportation: Valid driver’s license alongside access to a reliable vehicle. Additional state licenses or specialized industry certifications may be required depending on regional coverage.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Exceptional problem-solving skills with continuous attention to detail—capable of evaluating raw field data, establishing core facts, and synthesizing defensible technical conclusions.

• Proficiency in articulating complex engineering findings to varied audiences, ranging from executive leadership and legal counsel to public boards and external stakeholders.

• Demonstrated capability in drafting work scopes, technical cost estimates, formal project proposals, work schedules, and detailed investigative reporting.

• Familiarity with standard office productivity suites (e.g., Microsoft Office) and computer-aided design (CAD) / computer-aided engineering software packages.

• Competency in reading, interpreting, and applying guidance from legal documents, scientific publications, financial logs, and technical journals.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS, WORKING CONDITIONS & TRAVEL

• Work Environment: Hybrid workload divided between office-based work and active field inspections at industrial complexes, construction zones, residential properties, and commercial facilities.

• Physical Demands: Must be able to traverse rough terrain, walk sloped roofs, climb ladders, enter attics, crawl into enclosed or tight spaces (underpinning/tunnels), and maneuver through tight building footprints. Tasks may require bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, moving obstacles (e.g., furniture, fire-damaged debris), operating elevated lifts, and lifting items weighing up to 50 lbs.
  

• Schedule & Overtime: Full-time exempt position. Standard core operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a one-hour meal break. Flexibility to work extended hours/overtime is required to meet critical project deliverables.

• Travel Expectations: Up to 25% regional travel, including occasional overnight trips.

BENEFITS PACKAGE

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• Employer-provided Life and AD&D coverage, voluntary supplemental options, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies

• Retirement: 401(k) / IRA plans with employer participation opportunities

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) covering vacation, personal sick leave, and company-recognized holidays; Family Leave (Maternity/Paternity)

• Paid training and continuing education assistance

• Workplace Flexibility: Hybrid / Work-From-Home opportunities